The Executive Director of Uganda Bureau of Statistics, Dr. Chris N. Mukiza, this morning made a significant contribution at the 4th Session of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Statistics Committee meeting held in Mombasa, Kenya. The meeting brought together statisticians and policymakers from across the region to review progress in implementing the IGAD Regional Strategy for Development Statistics. It also provided a platform for discussing strategic directions to strengthen the IGAD Regional Statistics System and explore ways to ensure the long-term sustainability of statistical activities in East Africa.
During his submission, Dr. Mukiza emphasized the importance of robust data management and security. He urged National Statistics Offices to establish data backup and disaster recovery centers, highlighting that data loss is among the top risks facing statistical institutions today. His remarks underscored the need for East African countries to invest in technology and systems that safeguard vital national data, ensuring that crucial statistics are preserved even in the face of disasters or technical failures.
The IGAD meeting serves as a crucial forum for promoting collaboration among member states in the field of statistics. By sharing experiences, challenges, and best practices, participating countries can work together to improve the quality, reliability, and accessibility of regional data. Dr. Mukiza’s recommendations are expected to influence the development of stronger policies and systems that protect data integrity while supporting the region’s development planning and decision-making processes.
As East Africa continues to expand its reliance on data for planning, monitoring, and evaluation, calls for resilient data systems have never been more important. Uganda’s proactive stance, championed by Dr. Mukiza, highlights the country’s leadership in advocating for secure, sustainable, and well-managed statistical operations across the region. With proper implementation, these measures could ensure that vital information remains accessible, accurate, and reliable for generations to come.
